Whether you are a first time renter or have been living in a rental property for years, living with roommates can be both an exciting experience and bring unique challenges. Everyone has different ideas of how they want to live and whether you are bestfriends or found each other on a roommate finder website, things can sometimes get complicated.
We are here to help and give advice on how to not only be a great roommate but how to communicate effectively with your roommates to make your experience living together amazing!
Set Ground Rules It is always a good idea to discuss a few important ground rules with your roommates when you move in together. If there are certain things you don't want to share with your roommates (pots and pans or hygiene products) make sure to let them know from the start. The more conversations you all have at the beginning, the less likely you are to get in disagreements because you set these boundaries!
Decide How You Will Pay The Bills
In many rentals, you will have the ability to pay your individual rent separately but many times you and your roommates must pay utility bills together. We suggest deciding which roommate will be responsible for paying which bill each month. One roommate can be in charge of the electric bill, one the water/sewer bill, and one the cable/internet bill! Each month, you will need to decide how to get the appropriate amount of money to your roommate to pay your portion of that bill. Luckily we have it pretty easy these days with apps such as Venmo or Zelle. Easily transfer money automatically to your roommates account so they can quickly and efficiently pay the bill on time!
Be Considerate- Communication is Key!
When you live with a roommate or multiple roommates you always need to take them into consideration before hosting any dinner parties, friend gatherings, etc. A simple discussion to set plans with your roommates will open a conversation to make sure everyone is comfortable with a plan and each person is on the same page. Open communication about guests will prevent issues or arguments in the future.
Clean Up After Yourself in Shared Spaces
One of the simplest ways to show consideration to your roommates is by cleaning up after yourself. Whether you just cooked dinner in the kitchen or have been hanging out in the living room all afternoon, it's best to tidy up after yourself. This way your roommates do not come home or are expected to share an area you have created a mess in. If everyone does their part to clean any shared spaces, you will avoid upset feelings! How you keep your individual bedroom is up to you but cleaning any shared spaces is a must.
Talk About Your Schedules
The last topic we believe is important to discuss with your roommates is each persons individual schedule. This will be helpful to know to prevent any conflicts. Whether that is both needing to use the bathroom at the same time to get ready for work or knowing you need to try your best to be quiet in the mornings after your roommates late night shift, this conversation will help get everyone on the same page!
We hope you found this post helpful and will use a few of these with your future or current roommates to ensure a happy and healthy living arrangement!
